Ephesians Day 6

For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight.

Ephesians 1:4

Why does Paul want us to know that we are chosen? I know! Paul’s a pot-stirrer. He just loves to throw a grenade and watch the mayhem. Watch Christians fight over this for thousands of years. I don’t think so. Across Ephesians 1, Paul mentions several times that Christians are chosen, predestined or in his other writings he will call them elected. Why?

Well, because that is what God has revealed to Him. But why does God reveal this truth through Paul and other writers? I think for two reasons. Assurance & glory. 

Later in Ephesians Paul will tell us that we are saved by grace alone and this is so that we can’t boast. We didn’t choose God, He chose us. There can’t be any temptation for smugness, pride or self-glorification. Only God deserves the glory for our salvation. 

But the second reason is for assurance. So that we take heart. God doesn’t unchoose people. And God doesn’t make foolish choices. He doesn’t get unlucky. So we put our trust in His choosing of us and stand firm that nothing can separate us from His love.

For Today:

• Are you tempted to take some credit for your salvation?
• Do you find assurance in knowing God chose you?
• Pray that God would choose and call unbelievers close to you today.

Pray:
Praise the Father that He is glorious and the author of salvation. Give thanks for Jesus who gives us certain hope. Ask God for His Holy Spirit to help you and others trust and find surety in salvation.